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Jeffery Lynn Cronk, 54, of Newaygo passed away very unexpectedly on Sunday, November 28, 2010 in Copemish, Michigan.

Jeff was born January 12, 1956 in Grant at the Deur Clinic to Robert F. and Sharon L. (Purdy) Cronk.  He is survived by his wife, Wendy of Newaygo; sons, Bryce (Megan Router) of Newaygo, Myles (Hannah Harrington) of Grand Rapids, and Symon of Newaygo; parents, Robert F. and Sharon Cronk of Newaygo; siblings, Robert K. of Newaygo, Steven of Newaygo, Cathy (Rod) Lesley of Grant, Tim (Chris) of Newaygo, Carlos (Dana) Gonzalez of Spring Lake; mother and father-in-law, Herbert and Ruth Simons of Newaygo; in-laws, Scott (Theresa) Simons of Newaygo, Judy Simons of Newaygo, Matt Simons of Oxford.

Jeff was preceded in death by grandparents, Lewis Purdy and Louise Jacobson; brother-in-law, Mark Simons; and nephew, Thomas Gonzalez.

Jeff graduated with honors from Newaygo High School in 1974 and attended Ferris State.  He began working in the family business as a teenager.  Through hard work and brilliant business skills, he purchased Cronk ACE Hardware from his father, Robert Cronk, in 1990; which has been an important landmark in Newaygo since 1967 and is still going family-strong today.  Jeff was always the one to go to with questions.  He was very knowledgeable and creative.  No problem could stump him.

He was a very caring man who loved his family dearly.  He was a constant presence at his sons’ sporting events and donated much time and money to help these programs be successful for all the children of the community.  He served on many committees teaching his children the importance of giving back to his community.  He will always be remembered for his great smile, shining eyes, caring ways, and wonderful sense of humor.  He made everyone he met feel special and important. His caring continues with his participation as an organ donor through the Gift of Life. 

A memorial mass to celebrate Jeff’s life will be held Friday, December 3, 2010 at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, 599 Brooks, Newaygo, at 11:00 a.m. with Father Peter Schafer and Father Loc Trinh co-celebrating.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider a memorial donation to the Newaygo Public Schools Jeff Cronk Scholarship.  Donations may be mailed to NPS Jeff Cronk Scholarship, 360 Mill, P.O. Box 820, Newaygo, MI 49337, attn. Superintendent's office.

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From: Rolly Wolford
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2010 12:05 PM
Subject: Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 On behalf of the Newaygo First Responders, I extend our very deepest sympathy to Wendy and the entire Cronk family this time.  

Jeff will be missed not only by his family and friends, but also by the community he was so much a part of.

 Rolly Wolford, Chief
Newaygo First Responders

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From: Action Appraisal Service, Claims
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2010 2:56 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

Wendy & family, We were deeply saddened to hear about Jeff.  Please know you and the boys are in our thoughts and prayers.

Your Emerald Lake friends & neighbors,

Jeff Parks & Connie Mooney

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From: Clint Abbott
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2010 3:05 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

To Wendy and the entire Cronk family -- you are in our prayers. We received the news of Jeff's passing last night and like so many, spent the rest of the evening just pouring out our heart before God, asking "why?" I (Clint) have known Jeff from our very first day at Newaygo Elementary, though he was in the morning class. He's been a true friend for nearly 50 years. Jeff, my friend, I pray that you are at peace at this time. You are greatly missed by us, your family but I'm sure the entire Newaygo community.

 May the Lord bless you Wendy with His peace and watchcare...

 Clint and Michelle Abbott, NHS Class of '74

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From: Tom & Lila Muma
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2010 3:29 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 To all of the Cronk family sorry for passing of Jeff     Tom Muma and Lila Muma

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From: Beth Keloneva
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2010 4:56 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 My deepest sympathy to Wendy and the entire Cronk family from the Adamas. It's shocking news once again. Most of my contact with Jeff came from the store, he always went that extra mile and followed through with what he promised. That's what Cronk's Hardware is all about. My father, Rich, has been a life long customer. He would run in, grab something off the shelve and say "put it on my tab" as he walked out the door. Jeff will be missed in many ways.

 Sincerely, Beth (Adama) Keloneva

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From: Janet Breen
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2010 6:31 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Wendy, Brice, Miles, Symon, Sharon, Bob and family,

 We wish to express our heartfelt sorrow for your loss.  Jeff was a positive force for good in Newaygo and will be missed.  May God grant you peace and rest now and in the coming weeks and months and may you feel the prayers that are being offered up before our Heavenly Father for all of you.

 Janet Breen for Tim, Janet, John, Emily, Laura, Molly Breen and John McIntyre

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From: Andy Howland
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2010 8:32 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 We we’re devastated and shocked when we heard the news. Summers at the cottage will never be the same.

Jeff was Pure Class.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Andy & Lisa Howland & Shirley Arrigo

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From: Marianne Geluso
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2010 8:55 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Wendy and family , I am so sorry for the loss of your husband and father . He was a great person always helping others and just so much fun and a joy to be around . Where ever I saw him , be it on the lake, at the island, on the golf cart or the store he always had a smile and was willing to help in any situation . He was a great person and friend to all he met. He will be missed by so many , but our memories of him will live on. I pray for strength during this sudden loss. Marianne and Michael Geluso 

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From: Barbara Bull
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2010 9:56 PM
Subject: Condolences for Jeff Cronk

Wendy, Bryce, Myles and Symon

 I am very sorry for your loss, Jeff was a great person...he will be 
greatly missed to all that he touched, and our community will not be 
the same without him.
God Bless you and your family during this difficult time.

Travis Bull and Family

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From: tony kraut
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2010 10:13 PM
Subject: Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 I did not know you very long.....maybe 6 years. I bought a second home on Emerald Lake in 2003 and we met shortly after. My life is richer because of you and your sons. You are one of the kindest men I have ever met. I am proud to consider you a friend.

 My selfishness asks why, my heart feels pain, my brain says it takes time, and my soul awaits a reunion with Jeff someday. I am so sorry for your loss.     Tony Kraut

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From: jbleaver@triton.net
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2010 11:49 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Wendy, I was shocked and deeply saddened upon hearing the news about Jeff. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.  Jeff was such a thoughtful man. He was always so helpful when I would come into the store with a problem or a question. He was always generous with his knowledge, which was always dispensed with a grin. He will be sorely missed by so many.

My deepest sympathy to you and your family.

Sincerely yours,
Jack Leaver, Jr.

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry

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From: Miedema Family
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 6:32 AM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Our deepest sympathy Wendy, Bryce and Megan, Myles and Hannah, and Symon. 

Much love and prayer, Randy and Elsha Miedema and Family

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From: Kit
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 6:41 AM
Subject: Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 We wish to extend our deepest sympathy to the Cronk family in the passing of Jeff.   Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you deal with his loss.

 NEWAYGO ARMED FORCES FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP
         WE SUPPORT OUR TROOPS
              WITHOUT THEM,
         WE LOSE OUR FREEDOMS!
           GOD BLESS AMERICA!
            IN GOD WE TRUST!!

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From: Barton, Pam
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 7:57 AM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 There are no words that can convey at this time the sadness we are feeling for our very dear friend Wendy, their amazing boys and his parents and siblings. We are one family and we will work together to lighten the burden and pain that each and every one of you are going through now and in the days, months and year to follow. Please be at peace and know that GOD is holding you closely.

Al, Pam, Nicole and Nathaniel

 The greatest discovery of my generation is that man can alter his life simply by altering his attitude of mind....... William James (American philosopher and psychologist)

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From: Kari Lay
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 8:05 AM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 A man who called me friend. The family, friends, future generations, associates, and the community as a whole has suffered a great loss.

Our prayers are with you.

Skip & Kathy Grant

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From: Pikaart, Michelle
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 8:46 AM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Cronk family.  We are saddened to hear of Jeff’s passing.  May your memories and the Lord give you comfort.

 Rick and Michelle Pikaart

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From: donna friar
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 9:29 AM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

Since 1990, whatever we needed, no matter how weird it may have been, Jeff was able to figure it out for us and he did it with a smile & a laugh or two.  We will miss him greatly & we'll pray that God will be with the family as they go through this.  Wayne Bloom & Donna Friar Bloom.

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From: Cindy Robert
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 9:26 AM
Subject: Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Dear Wendy,

We are praying for you and your family. We were shocked when we heard the news. Jeff always had that big welcoming smile whenever we saw him. We are thankful we were able to see him and talk to him a few weeks ago.

 We are so sorry for your loss.

Tom and Cindy Roberts

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From: Iwema, Debra
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 9:38 AM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 We am very sorry for your loss.  Jeff was a good man.  My family’s thoughts are with you and your family during this very difficult time.

 Bruce, Deb and Carlee Iwema

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From: Tammy Hilliker
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 11:18 AM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 To the Cronk Family:

 We are so sorry to hear of Jeff’s passing.  He was always a huge help whenever we went into the Hardware store and he always went above and beyond to help his customers.  We will miss his warm smile and kindness.  He will truly be missed.  You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.  May you rely on your memories to bring you comfort.

 Jeff and Tammy Hilliker
Tiny’s Tasty Treats

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From: Judith Norwood
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 12:04 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk 

I am so sorry for these multiple losses you and your entire families 
have experienced.  You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Judy Aiken Norwood

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From: Bowman, Holly
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 12:53 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Simon, just wanted to let you know I am thinking of you and your family. I know it seems like your world has stopped but I promise you, you can get through this. Continue being the great kid you are and  tell your mom and brothers they are also in my prayers.

With Sympathy,

Mrs. Bowman

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From: Wright, Mark
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 1:04 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Wendy and boys,

 I am so sorry for your loss!  One family should not have to go through as much turmoil and sadness as yours has.  My family and I are praying for you and I hope you and the boys will not hesitate to call on us if there is anything that we can do for you.  Jeff was always so kind and thoughtful.  He always had time to talk and he always gave out good advice.  He will be missed by me and this community.

 Sincerely,

 Mark Wright and family

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From: Phillips, Brook
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 2:52 PM
Subject: Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Wendy, Bryce, Miles, and Symon,

This is so unbelievable, we were shocked and saddened when we heard the news on Sunday.  Your family has been through so much lately, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.  May you find strength to help guide you through such a difficult time. 

Your husband and father was such a great person.  He will be missed dearly by many!  Our Baseball Family will not be the same without him!

Russ, Brook, Brandon, and Wyatt Phillips

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From: Charles Benham
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 3:55 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Our sincere condolences to Wendy and the entire Cronk family on your loss.  Jeff will be sadly missed, his dedication to his family, friends and community was a real testament to his heart.  Our thoughts and many prayers are with you.

 Charlie & Lois Benham

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From: Maureen Madrid
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 4:51 PM
Subject: Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Words cannot express the sadness…just know that your friends and the entire community are keeping you in their prayers and we are all there for you and your boys for whatever you might need; whenever you might need it…love to your whole family ~

Maureen Pendergast Madrid

 Maureen Madrid
Member Services
Great Lakes Energy
1-800-442-2796 ext 8263

 Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass; it's about learning to dance in the rain~

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From: brigiemom@yahoo.com
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 5:07 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk>

 I am at a loss for words. My heart breaks for Wendy, the boys, the Cronks and all their families. I have known Jeff most of my life. His parents were neighbors to my grandparents. I was fortunate to get to see + visit with Wendy and Jeff a few times this past year. Although, I hadn't seen Jeff in years, he had the same smile, spunk + spirit as I remember. He will be missed by many but the memories will live on.

 Brigitte Robinson-Zdankus

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

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From: Heather Burns
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 5:25 PM
Subject: Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 We are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Jeff. Words cannot even begin to express our sorrow. He was truly a great man and the community as a whole is at a loss without him. May you all hold tight to memories of him for comfort & strength to get you through this difficult time & may the love of those around you help get you through the days ahead. 

Love,
Jason & Heather Kooistra

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

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From: phil@riemsma.com
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 6:07 PM
Subject: Condolences for Jeff Cronk

To all of the Cronk family:       We are so sorry to hear about Jeff. We truly will miss him. He was definitely our go to man that we could count on with all our hardware problems.  It was great to have a person you knew you could trust and that always cared for his customers like Jeff did.Your family is in our prayers 

Phil&Shirley Riemsma                                                                                                                                                                     

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From: Elaine
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 8:58 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 So sorry for your Families Lost.

You have our Condolences

 Elaine & Garrey Ball Sr

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From: Smentkowski,Greg
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 9:49 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 We are so saddened  at the loss of Jeff.  He was a great guy with a big heart and helpful hands.  You are in our prayers.

 Greg Smentkowski

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From: Sharon Cronk
Sent: Wednesday, December 01, 2010 8:04 AM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 As I sit here reading all the condolences from friends to our  family,it reminds me of what a wonderful man my son was,I ask why my son, why Wendys husband, why the father of Bryce, Myles and Symon, why the brother and uncle of my dear family, who are crying so hard to know the answers!!!!!!!A dear friend of mine said we will know when we open our eyes  in heaven!!!!God bless all of you and wrap your arms around this family. Love Jeffs Mama, as he called me!!!!

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From: Penny Smith
Sent: Wednesday, December 01, 2010 8:06 AM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Wendy, Bryce, Myles, and Symon,

                We are all so deeply saddened by the passing of Jeff. He was a very special person. Always there with a friendly conversation and a smile. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Marty and Penny Smith and Family.

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From: Paula Veneklase
Sent: Wednesday, December 01, 2010 10:47 AM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Dear Wendy and family, So sorry for your loss, I can not comprehend what you are going through. Hoping your faith will strengthen you in the days ahead and praying God will give you comfort and peace. With Sympathy, Paula Hanlon Veneklase

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From: Paul Eno
Sent: Wednesday, December 01, 2010 11:02 AM
Subject: Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 We were sad to hear of the sudden loss of Jeff. He has contributed much to the community, and was dynamic presence at the hardware. Our condolences go to the family.

 Paul and Audrey Eno

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From: Steve Hulst
Sent: Wednesday, December 01, 2010 11:25 AM
Subject: Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 We have lost one of the pillars of our community and a real gentleman.  While the questions of “Why Jeff?” and “Why now?” will surely remain perplexing and unanswered, we can be grateful for having known him, and having witnessed the example he set as a committed husband, father, businessman, and supportive member of the Newaygo community.  Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family as you grieve. 

Steve & Jacque Hulst

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From: kathy mccaffrey
Sent: Wednesday, December 01, 2010 3:58 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Jeff was a good man, he will be missed. When you think hardware, you think Jeff.

My prays go to the family. Dennis Mccaffrey and family

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From: Cindy L. Christman
Sent: Wednesday, December 01, 2010 4:18 PM
Subject: Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 To my beautiful friend Wendy:

 My arms are wrapped tightly around you and your family.  I am so very thankful that I was blessed with Jeff’s friendship.  My memories of Jeff will live forever in my heart.

 May God provide you and your family peace through this difficult journey.

 Cindy and Kevin Christman

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From: BETH CLEMENT
Sent: Wednesday, December 01, 2010 10:40 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 We would like to express our sympathy to the families and friends of Jeff. May God hold you in the palm of His hand during this difficult time and may you cling to family and friends to get through this. Remember the happy times you had with Jeff and he will live on in your memories. May God's peace be with you all.

Sincerely,

Pat and Beth (Cory) Clement and family  :`(

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From: Rick Beisiegel
Sent: Thursday, December 02, 2010 7:50 AM
Subject: Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Wendy, Myles, Bryce, Simon, Sharon. Cathy, & Bob Sr & Jr

I am at a loss for words.  The true definition of a gentleman.  Always
helpful, always kind & friendly.  May your memories comfort you as you push
forward.  Be assured of our love and prayers.  We are here for you.
 
Warm regards,
Rick & Juanita Beisiegel
Newaygo, Mi.  49337

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From: Kris Afton
Sent: Thursday, December 02, 2010 11:58 AM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Wendy, Bryce, Myles and Symon,

 My heart hurts for you. We will miss Jeff so much.  He was so good to all of us and always made us laugh.  He was such a good friend. 

 You are an amazing family and I know that together you will get through this.  We will be there for you.

 Love you guys,

Jeff, Kris and Cortney Afton

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From: Susie Gonzales
Sent: Thursday, December 02, 2010 1:13 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 To our extended Cronk Family:

Our deepest condolences and heartfelt sorrow at the loss of your son, brother, cousin, husband, uncle.

We uplift you in our prayers and ask for comfort , encouragement and strength as only our heavenly Father can give.  We love and miss you.

Baldemar & Elizabeth Gonzalez
Ramiro & Silvia Gonzales
Susie & Danielle Gonzales
Lubbock, Texas

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From: Francis, Luke
Sent: Thursday, December 02, 2010 11:12 PM
Subject: Condolences for Jeff Cronk

Although Jeff and I were not close friends, I feel like I knew him through my interactions with his sons.  Jeff’s calm and reflective side, his ability to make you feel important, and his practicality are all hallmarks of his son Bryce.  Bryce carries these traits as effortlessly as his father did and because of this the Cronk family will make it through this tragedy.  Jeff’s inquisitive and daring nature has always shown brightly through his son Myles.  Myles is the embodiment of Jeff’s confident, living life with no regrets approach. He, like his father, always brings a sense of intense playfulness to every situation.  Symon is forever smiling.  His presence is as big as his father’s.  He is just one of those people you notice when you walk into a room; he, like his father, exudes a quiet confidence that lets the rest of us know it will be alright.  All three of these young men share their father’s sense of public service, his commitment to things larger than himself, and his love and devotion to family.  Any father would be proud to have sons of such high caliber.   Because of Jeff and Wendy Cronk, this world is a much better place.  Together they raised three exceptional sons all of whom their father will be eternally proud.  To the entire Cronk family and to Matthew, my most heartfelt condolences for your loss. 

 Luke Francis

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From: stanwoodwest@aim.com
Sent: Saturday, December 04, 2010 10:47 AM
Subject: Condolences for Jeff Cronk


Sharon, Bob and family,

I was shocked to hear of Jeff's passing, he was a great guy and will be greatly missed as he was a great strength in the community.  I will contact you when I get back to MI. 

Paul Rose

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From: Briggs, Leslie A.
Sent: Friday, December 10, 2010 4:51 PM
Subject:  Condolences for Jeff Cronk

 Many thoughts and prayers to the Cronk Family. Many memories of talk with Jeff about times at my house on Brooks Lake with his Wendy, The Simons House. When they were younger